Learning about square numbers helps students develop their understanding of number patterns and the relationships between calculations, geometry, and algebra. This activity could be done as a stand alone project to increase students’ number sense, vocabulary, or logical thinking skills. It could also be done as part of a larger thematic unit on area and perimeter, multiplication, or investigating number patterns.
This activity begins with having students color in and cut out squares of various sizes. They will arrange them to discover and document the pattern in the numerical differences between
consecutive squares. Students are encouraged to find their own ways of working. In addition, teachers will have students approach the question in two ways: subtracting square numbers to find the differences and counting the number of cells needed to build the next larger consecutive square starting with a smaller square. Finally, students will create a chart to show what they have learned about the number pattern between square numbers.
I have included pages that have the consecutive square numbers outlined. This page could be used in a number of ways; students could use it to check their work and make sure the squares they are making are the right size and color. It could be given to students who missed out on a previous day’s work and need to catch up quickly.
You might want to print out a couple centimeter grid pages and have your students make squares from those. Once they have their squares cut out, give your students a blank page and have them create their own chart to explain the patterns that they found. I recommend this strategy because it allows students to be more actively involved in creating the final product.
Be sure to share your expectations for the project. You might give your students specific questions that must be answered by their work. Or, you might give them an instructional rubric to guide their work. In any case, focus your students on the main idea of sharing what they have learned about the pattern of consecutive odd numbers that appear between the square numbers.
Experiment, explore, and enjoy!
Isabelle
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